Police investigated after man Tasered and left with life-changing injuries

  • london
  • May 9, 2020
  • Comments Off on Police investigated after man Tasered and left with life-changing injuries
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An independent investigation has been launched after a man suffered ‘life-changing injuries’ when he was Tasered by police.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it is ‘seeking answers’ on ‘whether there are any conduct or criminal matters’ after the man in his 20s was injured in Burgoyne Road, Haringey, north London, on Monday, May 4.

The Metropolitan Police Force said three officers have been informed they are under investigation and have been placed on ‘local restrictions’.

The man ran away after being approached by police on patrol and was Tasered while attempting to jump a wall, the IOPC understands.

Officers arrested him on drug-related offences and he was taken to hospital with what has been described as life-changing injuries.

The investigation comes as a separate one was launched this week after officers Tasered a man in front of a young child at a petrol station in Greater Manchester.

IOPC regional director Sal Naseem said: ‘This is an extremely serious incident where, we understand, a man has suffered life-changing injuries.

‘We are in contact with his family and will keep them and him informed as we carry out our independent investigation.

‘Our role is to seek answers about what happened and share any learning highlighted by our investigations. Our investigation will look at all the circumstances and consider whether there are any conduct or criminal matters.’

‘In line with our tradition of policing by consent, the public has the right to expect police officers to be accountable when they use force, particularly if it leads to a death or serious injury.’

Met Police’s Detective Chief Superintendent Treena Fleming, said her thoughts and well-wishes were with him and his family, adding: ‘I have spoken with the man and a family member, and have assured them that I am fully committed to supporting the IOPC investigation.

‘All police officers are fully aware that they will be asked to account for their actions – officers are not exempt from the law and we would not wish to be.

‘Three officers have been informed they are under investigation and placed on local restrictions.

‘An incident like this is very sad and will naturally provoke commentary and conversations within the local community.

‘I would ask people to allow the independent investigation to take place and report its findings in due course so that the full circumstances can be established.

‘My senior leadership team and I are working hard to engage fully with our community partners, key stakeholders and the local authority.

‘We are speaking with them and listening to their views.’

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